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The Channahon Republican has represented the 16th Congressional District for three terms after serving his first in the 11th District.

Kinzinger had defeated Oswego Republican James Marter in the primary, while Dady knocked off three Democrats – Neill Mohammad, Amy Murri Briel and Beth Vercolio-Osmund – on March 20 to earn a shot at the incumbent.

In a conference call, Kinzinger said it was a great night for his camp, but called what was happening nationally "a split decision."

"It was nice to get a win by a sizable margin – it reaffirms the hard work I've done and our great team," Kinzinger said. "It appears, however, that the House will lose its majority, but it's been a great night for the Senate so far."

Democrats succeeded in winning enough seats to take control of the House, a development that must be considered a referendum on the presidency, Kinzinger said.

"Democrats were motivated, and although good policies have come from the administration, people are disgusted by some of the president's language. We have to show respect for each other, and the president has to take the lead," Kinzinger said.

He had some words of praise for Dady, who put together a formidable grassroots campaign supported by small contributors.

"My opponent ran a hard race, and she was very passionate about what she believes in," Kinzinger said.

Tuesday evening, Dady posted the following comment on her campaign Facebook page:

"Thank you! Thank you to everyone who supported our middle class campaign for real Representation in IL-16 with your time, your money, your prayers and votes! We have really started something here!"

Even with a Democratic majority in the House, Kinzinger said he is hopeful that the GOP can continue to build on economic gains made by the Trump administration and find bipartisan support on key issues.

"We must reach out to the other side of the aisle on issues such as infrastructure, education and fixing health care," Kinzinger said.

Health care became the central issue in the race. Dady supported a universal health care system, saying that rising premiums are unsustainable and health care is the single biggest barrier to job growth.

Kinzinger voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, citing the loss of preferred plans, forced doctor changes and high deductibles. He wants to get rid of parts of Obamacare while retaining protections for those with pre-existing conditions.

The candidates also had very different views on just about everything from immigration to tariffs and organized labor.

Kinzinger admits that he has softened on tariffs. Historically a free trade supporter, he now says there is a need to level the playing field in some areas, such as technology and intellectual property.

The incumbent was able to overcome Dady's accusations that Kinzinger doesn't spend enough time in his district and consequently has lost touch with the needs of his constituents.

Adam Kinzinger (R-Channahon) talks with Dan Werden of Morris at the Grundy County Republican gathering Tuesday at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge in Morris.

[Mark Busch/Shaw Media]

Democrat Sara Dady, who hoped to unseat Republican incumbent Adam Kinzinger in the race for U.S. representative in the 16th District, talks to supporters Tuesday during an election night gathering at O'Leary's Ale House in DeKalb.